Riverboat theater docks at Shaker Village
Published 4:15 pm Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill will host consecutive weekend performances of an original production in partnership with Adventure Theatre along the banks of the Kentucky River on July 26-27 and August 2-3. The play, “River Adventures”, explores the romanticism of the river through the eyes of the iconic fictional characters Tom Sawyer and Huckleberry Finn. The play will be staged on the retired, and permanently docked, riverboat at historic Shaker Landing.
“The setting for this production couldn’t be more ideal,” said Shaker Village Vice President of Public Programming and Marketing Billy Rankin. “We are excited to welcome guests of all ages to experience an evening amongst the Kentucky River Palisades and enjoy an adventure with Tom and Huck.”
The story shares some of Tom and Huck’s favorite childhood adventures along the Mississippi River. They, and their troupe of friends, will be “telling tales” and “spinning yarns” from the history of travel along the Kentucky River. Joining the fun will be the Huckleberry Bluegrass Band, with performances before and during the show.
“Bringing Tom and Huck to life using the retired riverboat as our stage is truly an honor,” said playwright and Adventure Theatre Co-Owner Adam Sovkoplas. “I am excited to write a show that takes advantage of this unique setting and to include stories from Kentucky history alongside some of our favorite tales from ‘The Adventures of Tom Sawyer’.”
Tickets are available to purchase online at shakervillageky.org/events. Guests will have the option of purchasing General Admission tickets at $50, General Admission tickets with rain insurance for $57, or VIP Admission tickets for ages 21+ at $75. VIP ticket holders will receive priority parking, preferred seating, a complimentary cocktail and access to a preshow 30- minute program on the history of Shaker Landing.
The Shaker Landing Barn will be open serving beverages, cocktails and food. Guests should bring a lawn chair or blanket to set up for the performance on the lawn.
The last weekend of shows coincide with the annual Shaker Village Craft Fair held on August 3-4 from 10:00 a.m.-5:00 p.m. As one of Kentucky’s premier craft events this fair attracts hundreds of visitors to the Village looking to purchase unique items from elite artists. Guests attending the play are encouraged to spend a full day at the Village enjoying all it has to offer before heading to Shaker Landing.
Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill in Harrodsburg, Ky. is located just 40 minutes away from Lexington, and 80 minutes outside of Louisville. To plan your visit to Shaker Village of Pleasant Hill, or to learn more, visit shakervillageky.org or call 859-734-5411.